Special award
A SPECIAL constable from Islay has received an award for her hard work and commitment to her community.
SPC Jacqueline Ross, who is based at Bowmore, has almost 11 years of service to the communities of Islay and Jura.
She was named special constable of the year at the second Scottish Policing Excellence Awards which took place last Friday at the Scottish Police College, Tulliallan.
Jacqueline volunteers her free time to assist officers, often at short notice – with her local knowledge at times proving invaluable.
She said: ‘I wanted to join the police when I was younger but wasn’t tall enough and so when the opportunity to become a special constable came up, I jumped at it.
‘Over the years I’ve been involved in lots of different incidents ranging from road traffic collisions to standing by crime scenes.
‘I also regularly attend community events to assist officers when they need me. There is a fantastic community spirit here and I love being a part of that and being able to help people.’
She added: ‘Winning this award means so much to me and I hope it encourages other people to sign up to be special constables. It’s very worthwhile and a great experience.’
Divisional commander for Argyll and West Dunbartonshire, Chief Superintendent Grant Manders, said: ‘Jacqueline has given up so much of her free time over the years to assist officers and her community and I am delighted that she has been recognised for her outstanding commitment. Her assistance is invaluable to the officers and local people of Islay and Jura.’